Mariah Carey has been honoured as the MusiCares Person of the Year, with a star-studded tribute that included a surprising nod to her secret grunge album from the 1990s. The event, held at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Friday night, celebrated Carey's five-decade career and philanthropic efforts, just two days before the Grammy Awards.
A Surprise Grunge Revelation
Throughout her illustrious career, Mariah Carey has masterfully blended pop, R&B, gospel, and hip-hop into countless hit songs. However, it was the unexpected performance of tracks from her clandestine grunge album that truly captivated the audience. Foo Fighters, joined by Taylor Momsen on lead vocals, delivered a powerful rendition of "Someone's Ugly Daughter," followed by "Love is a Scam," with Carey enthusiastically singing along from her front-row table.
This secret project, recorded in 1995 under the pseudonym Chick with friend Clarissa Dane, remained hidden until Carey's 2020 memoir revealed her involvement, where she provided background vocals. The tribute highlighted this lesser-known chapter of her musical journey, showcasing her versatility and enduring influence.
Star-Studded Performances
The evening featured an array of performances that reimagined Carey's iconic hits. Jennifer Hudson opened with a moving rendition of "I Don't Wanna Cry" before transitioning into "Vision of Love." Other notable acts included British girl group Flo harmonising on "Dream Lover," Billy Porter offering a unique take on "Always Be My Baby," and Grammy nominee Teddy Swims tackling the power ballad "Without You," which Carey famously took to number one in 1994.
Surprise guest Busta Rhymes teamed up with Chanté Moore and Spliff Star for "I Know What You Want," while John Legend performed "Hero" after Charlie Puth sang "I Still Believe." Additional performances came from Laufey with "It's Like That," Adam Lambert in a lavender jacket for "Can't Let Go," Kesha with "Obsessed," and Maggie Rogers with "Honey," who later told Carey, "You're the coolest."
Emotional Tributes and Diva Moments
Longtime collaborator Babyface praised Carey, calling her "one of one" and "a blueprint of a great songwriter." Stevie Wonder, though not performing, took the stage to express his mutual respect and love for the superstar. The event was adorned with thematic touches, such as metallic butterflies in lavender rose centrepieces and butter pats shaped like tiny butterflies, nodding to Carey's 1997 album "Butterfly."
Dripping with diamonds, Carey participated more from her table than onstage, breaking tradition by not performing her biggest hits at the end. Instead, the show concluded in under two hours with Jon Batiste leading a group in her holiday classic "All I Want for Christmas Is You," with Carey joining for about 90 seconds.
A Profound Honour
Carey, guided to the podium with her dress train carried by an attendant, expressed deep gratitude, calling the night "sublime" and "one of the most profound moments of my life and career." She reflected on her humble beginnings, saying, "When I was a little girl scribbling lyrics in my notebook late at night, I could only dream of someone hearing those words and relating to them."
This MusiCares award, previously given to legends like Bruce Springsteen and Dolly Parton, left Carey feeling "blessed" and overwhelmed by the love and music shared. She is now preparing for upcoming performances, including at the Milan Cortina Olympics opening ceremony and a show in Abu Dhabi, potentially saving her famed five-octave range for those events.
The 68th Grammy Awards will air on Sunday on CBS and stream on Paramount+, continuing the celebration of musical excellence that this tribute so fittingly honoured.
